Perhaps because they can be used interchangeably in martinis, go well with tonic or soda, and work well in other common beverages. Gin and vodka, therefore, are frequently seen as kindred spirits.
However, what separates the two? Many claim that gin is merely flavoured vodka. This age-old query has been the topic of numerous bar discussions, and these days, it also appears in countless Google searches. But is it true? Read On.
Understanding Gin & Vodka
Gin
Gin’s connection to juniper berries is well recognised. Are juniper berries absent? No gin. Gin is not, however, made from Juniper from conifers. The neutral spirit used as the foundation for gin is often produced by distilling malt, grape, or grain. In a subsequent distillation, this is blended with Juniper and other ingredients to create the gin you are all familiar with and enjoy.
Vodka
On the other hand, vodka is often created by distilling potatoes, rye, or wheat (but any carbohydrate or sugar-rich crop works well), then diluting it with water to the appropriate alcohol content.
Other flavours are not produced, as is the case with gin, but instead introduced after the distillation procedure. Hence, both vodka and gin are crystal-clear liquors that are great for mixing.
But how do the two contrast with one another?
The Difference
Understanding and differentiating between these two most popular beverages is an age-old battle knowledge only a few have. They are separated based on:
The Variations in the Ingredients
- Gin and vodka can both be produced using grains.
- However, gin is created by distilling grains again with juniper berries.
- And the juniper berries are what distinguish one vodka from another.
The Variations in Flavour
- The juniper berries are also responsible for the distinct flavours of gin and vodka.
- In contrast to vodka’s bland flavour, gin possesses a botanical flavour.
- Gin’s flowery, fruity, or spicy flavours—all of which you adore—comes from juniper berries.
- On the other hand, vodka has no distinctive flavour or aroma, which is why mixing it in drinks is so typical.
Different Serving Mechanism
Frozen vodka is preferred because it has a more excellent texture, is stickier at freezing temperatures, and can help people unwind. Conversely, gin has a unique season that can compensate for the lack of hope and savour when served warmly.
Variable Mixability Making a Wide Range of Cocktails
Vodka is one of the preferred liveliness options because it is bland and odourless, while cotton gin comes in as a close second because it may not pair well with other sorts of ingredients that could perhaps clash with its season. Like those found in Gin and Tonic, Straight flavours can make gin more racially inclusive.
The Moscow Mules, White Russian, Bloody Mary, Vesper Cocktail, and Sex on the Beach are just a few of the famous vodka drinks. The traditional Martini, Negroni, Red Snapper, White Lady, Tommy Collins, and Clover Clubs are among classic gin concoctions.
In the End
By comprehending the distillation procedure, you can realise several similarities between vodka and gin. Both translucent spirits have European roots and use the same techniques in their initial manufacturing.
It is safe to say that calling gin just “flavoured vodka” would be inaccurate. Each has a different flavour and uses other raw materials, particularly the Juniper and fruits needed to make gin.
